Amanda says she wanted to continue studying Software Engineering in order to gain leadership and technical skills. Since the program was online, she was able to continue with her professional career in the field while pursuing her degree.
“Put yourself out there and become engaged with others in the class!”
Amanda Santiago chose WVU Online for her Master of Science in Software Engineering for several reasons. First, it was highly rated and accredited. Second, the program provided courses in areas relevant to her career. And third, it was entirely online.
"I had studied at WVU for my bachelor’s degree and I was excited to be able to continue my education at WVU.”
said Amanda, who is now Senior Principal Computer Systems Architect and Tech Fellow at Northrop Grumman Corporation.
Amanda says she wanted to continue studying Software Engineering in order to gain leadership and technical skills. Since the program was online, she was able to continue with her professional career in the field while pursuing her degree.
She says one of the biggest things that can impact your career is the network you create.
“The classes provided a lot of opportunities to connect with other students through discussion boards, video chats, and group projects. We worked on assignments together using tools that enabled real-time collaboration. Collaborating with peers enables us to network with others in the software industry and I have maintained those connections even after graduation.”
Biggest Challenge
"I think one of the biggest challenges wasn't with the program itself, but rather managing my time since I worked professionally while I was completing my degree. It Is really useful to have an advisor there to help you when you are determining your course load."
Things She Didn’t Expect
“Before I started, I wasn't sure what kind of resources the program would be able to provide online versus in-person for engaging with professors and students. I found that in the online classes it was still very easy to engage and get to know folks.”
How Online Learning Prepared Her for the Future
"Online learning prepared me to work remotely, giving me an opportunity to use tools that enabled remote work while learning additional self-discipline tactics for managing my time. It enhanced my work-life balance now that I am balancing my career and family life."
Her “Big Three” Things Learned from Online Classes
"Remote Collaboration, time management, and networking."
WVU Campus Resources She Found Helpful
"I found that having advisors and the community of the MSSE program was very helpful.”
Most Memorable Online Class Experience
"At the time I completed my MSSE degree, I had been working in-person exclusively. The online classes enabled me to get real-world experience working remotely and collaborating with groups of students across the country."
One Word to Describe Her Degree Program
"Engaging"
One Word to Describe WVU Online
"Excellent"
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